Real Estate Property Tax

Real Estate property taxes are levied annually and due upon receipt of the tax bill, but no later than December 31 each year. The United States postal service postmark determines the timeliness of payment. For example, a payment mailed and postmarked on December 29 is considered paid on time even though the Collector's Office does not receive the payment until January 2. The Collector's Office mails tax bills during November. If a tax bill is not received by December 10, contact the Collector's Office at 816-881-3232. Failure to receive a tax bill does not relieve the obligation to pay taxes and applicable late fees.

About the Taxes
Taxes are a lien against the real estate and remains with the property, not the specific owner of that property. When the ownership changes, the new owner is liable for any unpaid real estate property taxes due.

Tax bills are sent to the mailing address in the tax file as of the date the bill is printed. If you receive a bill that your mortgage company is to pay, please forward the bill to them for timely processing.

Delinquent Taxes
Taxes not paid in full on or before December 31 will accrue interest, penalties and fees.

Property is subject to be sold at public auction for back taxes if the real estate taxes remain unpaid. The land tax sale is held annually on the Courthouse steps, usually during the month of August.